Within Rice Lake State Park, this established campground operates under DNR Parks and Trails management from April through October. The facility accommodates RVs up to 55 feet with electric hookups available, though rangers sometimes redirect smaller RVs from initially selected sites to more suitable locations in the electric campground area.
Walk-in sites provide lake access but come with trade-offs that campers should consider. Rocky B. notes the walk-in sites were "TOO convenient for someone looking for more space and privacy, wanting to hike into something more secluded." Site #1 offers lake views but sits directly on the hiking trail where three paths converge. The parking area for walk-in sites requires only a short carry to reach campsites.
The lake itself provides paddling and small boat access, though swimming options are not available. Wildlife sightings include barred owls, sandhill cranes, bull frogs, and leopard frogs near the boat launch. A 2.5-mile walking trail circles the property, crossing through some tent sites. The campground maintains a clean environment with adequate shower and bathroom facilities, though these may be temporarily closed during certain periods.
Site spacing varies throughout the campground. Electric sites offer more room and some privacy from surrounding woods, while walk-in sites sit closer together. Firewood costs $6 and is available at the office. "Clean thru out the park," reports Tim B., who also notes the facility works well for weekend getaways. The campground fills on weekends, so reservations help secure preferred sites. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore campgrounds outside Owatonna.
Description
Campground is open April 1 - October 23
Arrive prepared. Go to mndnr.gov/ricelake for visitor alerts and seasonal updates.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundRice Lake State Park Campground is located in Minnesota
Directions
Located 7 miles east of Owatonna on Rose Street. From Hwy 35, take exit 42A. Follow the signs to Rose Street. East on Rose Street to the park.
Address
8485 Rose Street
Owatonna, MN 55060
Coordinates
44.08890307 N
93.05886723 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/2/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 35 min from Rochester, MN
- 48 min from Mankato, MN
- 1 hr 7 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 2 hrs 15 min from Eau Claire, WI


























